True Beauty

But Let it be the inward adorning and beauty of the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible & unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit, which (is not anxious or wrought up, but) is very precious in the sight of God.  1Peter 3:4

What is a person like underneath their appearance? When the mask, layers & barriers come down – who does God see, and who do we see?  How can we really know the state of someone else’s heart, or even our own? 

Joyce Meyer says of this verse:

“When we do not attempt to know the ‘’hidden man of the heart” we make a mistake in one of two ways.. 1) we approve of someone because they appear to be something they are not or 2) we disapprove of someone because of some outward appearance or action, when that person is actually a wonderful person on the inside.”

The great thing is that God does not judge by appearance only – and neither should we.

There is nothing wrong at all with outward adorning, as long as it is balanced with more focussed inward adorning.  Our inner person carries a fragrance that heaven adores and will grace us with a lasting beauty when our youth fades away. 

There are some women in my life who have such dignity & grace around their lives who become more beautiful as they age, and they all have one thing in common – an unswerving devotion and trust in Jesus - despite the adversities of their lives.  Throughout the many seasons of life they have come through with a spirit that is so very precious to God, and worthy of great admiration.

They have placed importance on developing their inner selves and it then is reflected outwardly.

I recently read about the life of Ruth Graham - who was married to well known evangelist Billy Graham.  The article started with, "Everyone who knew Ruth Bell Graham knew that she loved Jesus and she loved people."  What a statement!

Could I be as bold to ask - what statement would you want said of you when the world is reflecting on your life well lived? Would they remember your true beauty? 

 I hope & pray they will.

The article continued..  "In her writing, speaking & simple acts of kindness - to neighbours, friends & anyone who needed a lift - she demonstrated the grace & mercy of the Saviour she first met when she was a little girl in China..."  She grew up in a home that modelled true faith in God & authentic Christianity.   Her faith was real & she gave out of who she was - becoming a rock for one of the worlds greatest heroes in the faith.  

In God's eyes - we are royalty.  We are his princesses. 

One of my favourite, highlighted verses is in Isaiah 62:3  "You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord's hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God."

I love the meaning of diadem - "jewelled crown".   And even better - "the authority or dignity symbolized by a crown" 

You are precious, beautiful, priceless, unique and without comparison.   There is no doubt.

There's another highlight in 1Peter 3 (The Message)

"Summing up:  Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble.   That's for all of you - no exceptions.  No retaliation.  No sharp-tongued sarcasm.  

Instead, bless - that's your job, to bless.  You'll be a blessing and also get a blessing."

It's not the prettiest verse, but it's one of those verses you need to read again & again so it permanently resides in your heart - cultivating warmth, love, compassion, humility...

And beauty.